Typical Towing Configuration
- Dual leg bridle that serves as the shock absorber of the tender tow rig. Nylon Double Braid is for applications requiring high strength with excellent shock absorbing properties. Due to its high elongation, nylon is almost always used in applications involving shock loading. Typical length of the bridle is 50’- 75’ (15m-25m) per leg.
- Simply the strongest rope available. Dyneema (HMPE) is the industry standard when a lightweight, low stretch, high strength rope is required. The main hawser is typically spliced directly to the Nylon bridle. Dyneema chafe sleeve over the junction provides robust protection from wear and tear. Typical length of the hawser is 100’-200’ feet (30m-60m).
- The “business end” of the hawser that allows for safely connecting to the tender end of the tow rig. Most popular methods of connection are Tylaska snap shackle and Dyneema soft shackle.
- Tylaska snap shackle. The industry leader for tender towing applications. Each is proof tested to 100% of max working load. They are made in USA from heat treated 17-4 PH stainless steel for maximum strength and reliability. Several sizes available for most tender sizes.
- Dyneema soft shackle. A new addition to towing applications. It is lightweight and super strong. It floats and is endlessly customizable to almost any size or strength. Dyneema soft shackles can be provided with Certificates from the factory if needed.
The final portion of the tender tow rig configuration. The Dyneema (HMPE) painter is the final short length from the hawser connection to the tow eye shackle connection. The Dyneema (HMPE) line will be the same diameter and strength as the main hawser. Stainless steel thimble ends are the most popular configuration, but sometimes Dyneema chafe covered eyes will be used if there is a concern of the line damaging the tender hull. Typical length is 10’- 20’ feet (3m-6m). Catamaran tenders will need to utilize two painters.
The last and perhaps most important component of the tender towing rig is the bolt shackle. Bolt type safety shackles are the best way to connect to the tender tow eye. The shackles are most commonly made from stainless steel with an oversized pin for strength. It will be critical to have an accurate measurement of the eye size in the towing bracket to ensure the best possible fit.